Kids in the Dependency System (K.I.D.S.) Clinic

K.I.D.S. has been helping foster children in Southern Los Angeles County to get and stay healthy since 2006. Compared to the general pediatric population, foster children are more likely to suffer from acute and chronic medical conditions, mental health problems, malnutrition (obesity or poor growth,) and developmental delay, among others. Often these conditions are the result of abuse, neglect, poor environmental stimulation, insufficient care and nutrition, and inadequately treated chronic illnesses such as asthma. Studies have shown that nearly 50% of children entering protective services have not received routine health care, such as recommended vaccinations. In addition, with removal from their primary home and frequent placements in different foster homes, many children have no medical records documenting immunizations, allergies or known medical diagnoses. This also leads to fragmented, insufficient and even inappropriate medical care.

K.I.D.S. responds with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Within 30 days of placement in foster care, each child is scheduled to visit the clinic for medical, mental, neuropsychological, developmental, and nutritional assessments. The K.I.D.S. team uses this information to develop a healthcare plan for the child in conjunction with the Department of Children and Family Services.